Mr Thammalla uses an architectural design approach to look at how to shift the notion of culture and its connection to a disappearing landscape.
This was the first TED event Mr Thammalla would attend and, as a speaker, he felt excited but nervous at the same time.
"I've never spoken in front of a crowd this large, but it will be a great opportunity and a learning curve," he said.
Will Johnston, radio host on The Hits Bay of Plenty, is this year's TEDxTauranga MC and said he was excited to be a part of the event.
He said the best part about TED events was how diverse every speaker was and that everyone in the room interacted with each other.
"You couldn't really get a more chalk and cheese group of speakers," he said, but this meant there really was a topic everyone was interested in.
This year the event will be held at Holy Trinity Church on Devonport Rd.
Mr Johnston said the smaller venue was one of the aspects he was most excited for this year and it would be beneficial for the crowd and speakers.
"The speakers will be able to hear the audience more and be able to react to them better," he said.
The much-anticipated event included access to all 10 speakers, three entertainment acts and healthy refreshments throughout the day.
Tickets are still available through Eventfinda online, over the phone or at Mauao Performing Arts centre.
TEDxTauranga
-TEDxTauranga is an all-day event from 10am to 6pm
-The event is being held at Holy Trinity Church, 215 Devonport Road Tauranga
-It is a non-profit event and all speakers and staff are volunteers
-Ticket prices start from $75
